Principal’s Update 2016 – 4

March 23 2016

Tuesday’s Athletics Carnival for Years 6-12 held at Sydney Olympic Park for the first time was a great success. Blessed with fine weather and outstanding facilities, our students had the opportunity to shine. Records were broken and House spirit was alive and well. Year 12 students set the standard for all students through their exemplary attendance and engagement. Thank you to the Sports Department, the PDHPE Department and all staff for their organisation and generosity that ensured a successful event.

It is now two years since I participated in the Pilgrimage to the Lands of Dominic, along with Dominican Principals and leaders from across Australia. It certainly enriched my understanding of the history, traditions and ethos of the Dominican Order. Ms Cath Horan and Mr Bob Anderson are embarking on the 2016 Pilgrimage and set off this Thursday. I wish them well and know that their experience will enrich not only themselves but the wider Santa community.

Thank you to those families who were able to attend the IB Diploma Information night. We will ensure each term that there is a relevant parent workshop, as well as ones for students specifically. We also encourage you to access the IB Parent Information Page on HAIKU. On the Primary Campus the Primary Years Programme of the IB will be undergoing a rigorous two-day authorisation process by the International Baccalaureate Organisation. If successful, we will then become an official IB World School. I have every confidence that this will be the case.

As we prepare for the events of Holy Week, we are challenged by the story of Jesus’ betrayal and crucifixion commemorated on Good Friday. At the same time we remember the hope and love that is the meaning of Easter. We share in the joy of the Risen Lord through the commemoration of his Resurrection. In this Year of Mercy, we strive to share this joy with our extended community, local and global. The students have participated in many acts of kindness during the season of Lent, and have also contributed financially to Caritas to support our Fijian neighbours who have been devastated by Cyclone Winston. In the words of the students: ‘We have been challenged to engage in true alms giving – giving, without receiving; giving because others need our help; giving because the welfare of others is important’.

As Holy Week concludes on Easter Sunday, take time to pray and reflect on how we seek hope in a troubled world, speak our faith and proclaim the truth. We pray particularly for the people of Brussels following the recent terrorism outbreak.